Spirituality in a Material World
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Sunday 20th November 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/z0cXYQPEfEQ

This talk emphasizes the significance of spirituality in a materialistic world, highlighting that materialism can overshadow the unseen dimensions of faith if not acknowledged. Throughout the talk, important concepts such as the importance of intention, the need for reminders, and the differing depths of understanding spirituality are explored. The talk reflects on the Quran's emphasis on Taqwa, or consciousness of Allah, as a guiding principle not just for believers but all of humanity. The discussion points serve to remind listeners of the essence of worship, which should transcend mere physical actions or rituals, aiming instead for a deeper connection with the unseen.

The talk further uses examples from the Quran, particularly stories from Surat Al-Kahf, to illustrate the triumph of spirituality over materialism. The narratives highlight the importance of faith and the unseen, demonstrating how true spirituality allows individuals to see beyond the physical aspects of life. The talk encourages a re-evaluation of personal worship practices, urging listeners to strive for a more profound understanding of their spiritual lives.

Ultimately, the message calls for a collective and individual awakening to the spiritual foundations of Islam, reaffirming that true faith is rooted in believing beyond the material world.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Reminders and renewing ones intention
- Islam not being a material religion
- Creating a true connection with Allah
- How does a person attain Taqwa?
- Examples of the true pious ones in Islam
- Examples from the Quran
- Striving to attain spirituality

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Spirituality in a Material World

Obedience to the Messenger ﷺ
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 2nd December 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/gq-w7BfYq6o

This talk emphasizes the multifaceted relationship between believers and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, anchored in belief, support, love, and the essential aspect of obedience. The talk points out that simply believing in the Prophet ﷺ is insufficient; it is crucial for believers to actively follow his teachings and implement them in their lives to achieve true guidance and success. The talk illustrates the significance of obedience through various Qur'anic verses, where the disobedience of the Prophet ﷺ directly correlates with the disobedience of Allah, highlighting the severe consequences of ignoring this relationship.

The talk reminds the audience that even close familial ties, such as those of the Prophet’s ﷺ wives or children, do not guarantee salvation if they fail to follow him.

Furthermore, the talk stresses that a true connection with the Prophet ﷺ must be demonstrated through actionable obedience and that cultural or familial sentiments alone cannot serve as a substitute for embracing and following his teachings.

The discussion warns against the inclination to mock or deride those who practice the Sunnah, as this reflects a deeper issue of personal belief and devotion. It concludes by underscoring that the believer's ultimate success hinges on their commitment to both loving and obeying the Prophet ﷺ, showcasing the necessity of this duality for salvation in the hereafter.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- The Prophet ﷺ being a messenger for all
- Success through following the Prophet ﷺ
- Those who turn away from obedience
- Personal connection along with obedience
- Ridicule towards those who observe the sunnah
- Relationship with the Prophet ﷺ
- Allah addressing the wives of the Prophet ﷺ

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Obedience to the Messenger ﷺ

The Prophet ﷺ: A Servant of Allah
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 9th December 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/bQUC8knLpYQ

This talk outlines the attributes and names of Rasulullah ﷺ, focusing on how Allah has elevated him through various titles such as Nabi, Rasul, Muhammad, and Ahmad, emphasizing his revered position as "Abdullah" or servant of Allah. Several anecdotes reflect prophetic virtues, especially during significant moments in their lives, showcasing their humility in servitude toward the Creator. The talk emphasizes that true honour lies in the act of serving Allah, as demonstrated through instances from the lives of prominent prophets like Yusuf and Sulayman, who despite their elevated status remained humble servants of Allah.

The key point highlighted is that servitude should be embraced, and through this humility, individuals can forge a deeper connection with Allah. The talk concludes by urging everyone to adopt the spirit of servitude as exemplified by Rasulullah, promoting the understanding that one's position in this world should be approached with the utmost humility, regardless of past glories or achievements. Through such a lens, the talk reinforces Islamic values of patience, respect, and servitude, advocating that humility before Allah is the ultimate sign of faith and piety.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Names given to the Prophet ﷺ
- Allah's choice of a title for the Prophet ﷺ
- Humility of Yusuf a.s, Sulayman a.s & Isa a.s
- The position which Allah loves the most
- The manner of eating by the Prophet ﷺ
- Avoiding extravagant praise
- Accepting the rank of servitude

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The Prophet ﷺ: A Servant of Allah

Heeding Admonition Part 1 of 3
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 13th January 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/-ZbJEEwB4Jk

This talk emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, sincere intentions, and humility when engaging with religious teachings. While individuals receive religious knowledge through various means - such as the Quran, Hadith, and lectures - it is crucial to reflect upon how much this knowledge actually transforms a person for the better. The talk highlights several barriers to understanding and absorption of religious teachings, illustrating through historical examples of the Quraysh's response to the Quran and Rasulullah's ﷺ community gatherings, where despite being in the presence of the Prophet ﷺ, many did not truly listen or accept the message due to their hardened hearts and preconceived notions.

To genuinely benefit from religious admonition, individuals must cultivate specific qualities and fulfill certain conditions such as having robust faith, sincere intention, and respectful listening practices. Active participation and humility in seeking knowledge are essential, as distractions and arrogance can hinder one's ability to absorb divine teachings.

The talk encourages attendees to be respectful of both the material and the teaching environment, asserting that genuine engagement and humility will lead to meaningful spiritual growth and understanding.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Prerequisites for transformation
- The Prophet ﷺ only being a warner
- The Prophet's ﷺ love for his ummah
- First condition - Iman (Belief)
- Second condition - Ikhlas (Sincerity)
- Third condition - Listen attentively
- Fourth condition - Respect
- Taking notes during lectures

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Heeding Admonition Part 1

Heeding Admonition Part 2 of 3
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 20th January 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/Px5_0raCe8U

This talk revolves around the importance of genuinely engaging with religious teaching and taking personal responsibility for one’s spiritual growth and understanding. The talk emphasizes that merely attending lectures, reading, or listening is not sufficient for real transformation. To fully benefit from the guidance of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, one must cultivate a sincere intention, acknowledge personal responsibility, and actively engage with the material in a focused and respectful manner. It is also crucial to maintain humility and seek knowledge from learned individuals while being attentive and present during teachings.

The talk shares anecdotes from Islamic history, describing how the companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ exemplified respect and dedication towards learning from their teachers. They approached knowledge not as a mere academic endeavour but as a heartfelt connection with their teachers. Emphasizing the necessity to avoid following one's desires, the speaker argues that true guidance requires striving against inner impulses that detract from absorbing religious teachings.

The talk concludes with a reminder for the audience to seek constant improvement, urging them to act on what they learn and to turn to Allah for assistance in their spiritual journeys.

Below are some of the timecodes and topics for this talk:
- Advice on attending religious talks
- Example of respect in a gathering
- Humility & respect when seeking knowledge
- Parting advice from a respected scholar
- Acting on beneficial knowledge immediately
- Avoid following desires
- Turning to Allah (inābah) & examples of the sahabah

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Heeding Admonition Part 2

Heeding Admonition Part 3 of 3
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 27th January 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/3g1HOY6lvxw

The talk emphasizes the significance of benefiting from divine guidance by actively engaging with religious teachings through listening, reflecting, and acting on them. The importance of personal responsibility, maintaining a sincere intention, and listening attentively in a respectful environment is underscored. Additionally, the talk discusses the necessary qualities to absorb the teachings, including humility, respect for the content, and the importance of companionship with truthful individuals.

Furthermore, the dangers of self-conceit, greed, and the preference for worldly desires over spiritual growth are elaborated. The focus is on fostering a humble attitude towards learning, encouraging individuals to be open to correction and aware of the effects of their choices.

The talk concludes with a reminder to detach from worldly desires and prioritize spiritual improvement, praying for everyone to benefit from divine admonitions and guidance effectively.

Below are some of the timecodes and topics for this talk:
- Requirements in order to benefit from knowledge
- Recap of previous points mentioned
- Being fearful of accountability
-  Condition of Taqwā when taking knowledge
- The love of wealth and the dunyā
- Turning away from the dunyā
- Be willing to be corrected

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Heeding Admontion Part 3

Friend or Foe? The Effects of Company Part 1 of 2
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 10th February 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/Ufwtuea-N4w

The emphasis of this talk revolves around the significant influence of companionship on an individual's character, behaviours, and beliefs. The talk references Quranic verses and aḥādīth that highlight the necessity of maintaining relationships with truthful and righteous individuals, while cautioning against the detrimental effects of bad company. Various historical anecdotes and examples from the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions, particularly Abu Bakr Siddiq, are shared to illustrate how deeply one's companions affect not just personal morality but also public standing and decision-making. 

The talk delves into how societal perspectives on relationships have evolved, drawing profound insights about recognizing a person through their associates. Ultimately, the talk urges listeners to be mindful in selecting friends, engage in sincere friendships rooted in virtue, and consider the long-term effects of their social circles on their journey toward righteousness and moral integrity, ending with a heartfelt supplication for guidance in finding pious companions.

Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk:
- Importance of good company
- Caution against bad friends
- Solitude vs. Poor company
- Giving in to peer pressure
- Example of peer pressure in the Quran
- Becoming relaxed with friends
- Relying on advice from friends
- Misplaced trust in friends
- Mob mentality among friends
- The beautiful friendship of Abu Bakr

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Friend or Foe? The Effects of Company Part 1

Friend or Foe? The Effects of Company Part 2 of 2
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 17th February 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/MFSoFxJdO4g

This talk emphasizes the profound impact that friends and companions have on an individual’s faith, behaviour, and overall character. Drawing upon various aḥādīth and Qur'anic verses, it illustrates the idea that a person is influenced by their companions—"a man is upon the Deen of his friend." Good company not only uplifts one's spirituality but also enhances knowledge and concerns for righteousness, whereas bad company can corrupt their moral standing, leading to adverse influences and negative thoughts about virtuous individuals and principles.

Throughout the talk, the speaker discusses the concept of solitude over harmful associations, drawing parallels with the stories of prophets and righteous figures who distanced themselves from unvirtuous peers. By conveying the dangers of hypocritical friendships, the importance of pious company, and urging listeners to seek Allah’s guidance for better companionship, the speaker concludes with a focus on the ultimate consequences in the afterlife—reinforcing the message that the company we choose in this life significantly determines our fate in the hereafter.

Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk:
- The Impact of good & bad company
- Ibrahim a.s moving away from his people
- Avoiding the company of the ignorant
- The people of the cave (Aṣḥāb al-kahf)
- The couplet of Imam Malik ibn Dinar
- Choosing your company in the akhirah
- The prophets praying for good company
- Solitude is worship

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Friend or Foe - The Effects of Company Part 2

Seeking & Striving for Religious Success Part 1 of 2
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 7th July 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/xNhTSSQPaPk

The talk provides a deep reflection on the recent celebrations of Eid and the indispensable themes of sacrifice associated with Hajj, emphasizing that the essence of these traditions transcends mere animal offerings to personal sacrifices of time, wealth, and desires. Quoting examples from the Quran and stories of the Prophets, particularly Ibrahim (a.s.), the talk outlines how true leadership arises through enduring challenges and fulfilling divine commands and highlights the significance of striving in the pursuit of religious success. 

Further, the talk mentions the challenges individuals face in fulfilling their spiritual ambitions, drawing comparisons to common human tendencies, such as failing to follow through on New Year resolutions. The overarching message reinforces that true success in religion is not merely a product of intention but requires stringent sacrifices, commitment, and a willingness to act despite life’s distractions, with practical examples from historical mentors and scholars illuminating the necessity of dedicated effort in one's spiritual journey.

Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk:
- Lessons from the days of Hajj & Eid
- Effort required for religious success
- The example of Qarun during the time of Musa a.s.
- What is religious success?
- Striving for religious knowledge
- Sacrifices in order to attain our ambitions
- Examples from the lives of the pious

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Seeking & Striving for Religious Success Part 1

The Sage & Scholar of the Ummah Sayyidunā ʿAbdullāh ibn Masʿūd
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 10th November 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/jbU8ibxf5b8

The talk revolves around the life and legacy of ʿAbdullāh ibn Masʿūd (r.a.), one of the most illustrious companions of Rasulullah ﷺ, who played a pivotal role in early Islam. The talk  highlights Ibn ibn Masʿūd’s early embrace of Islam as the sixth person to convert, despite the adversity he faced. His knowledge, exceptional intelligence, and unwavering love for the Qur'an were paramount, as evidenced through various instances, including witnessing miracles at the hand of the Prophet ﷺ, participating in battles, and publicly reciting the Qur'an.

The talk emphasizes ibn Masʿūd’s profound relationship with Rasulullah ﷺ, where he served as a confidant and attendant, immersing himself in the Prophet’s ﷺ teachings. His humility, combined with deep knowledge of the Qur'an and Sunnah, earned him respect from the community, especially from Umar (r.a.), who frequently praised him.

The talk reflects on the legacy of ʿAbdullāh ibn Masʿūd, urging the audience to embody the values exemplified by him, emphasizing piety, humility, and a commitment to learning and practicing Islam, making a case for maintaining the spirit of the early companions in contemporary times.

Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk:
- ʿAbdullāh ibn Masʿūd embracing Islam
- Ibn Masʿūd's relationship with the Prophet ﷺ
- His love for the Qur'an
- The attendant of Rasulullah ﷺ
- The dua of ʿAlqamah
- The piety of Ibn Masʿūd
- The knowledge & mannerisms of Ibn Masʿūd
- His knowledge of the Sunnah
- Recitation of Ibn Masʿūd

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The Sage & Scholar of the Ummah Sayyidunā ʿAbdullāh ibn Masʿūd

Al Kawthar Academy was established under the guidance of Shaykh Abu Yusuf Riyadh ul Haq to cater for the religious, spiritual and educational needs of English speaking Muslims. Its endeavour is to become a reliable reference and a valuable resource of authentic Islamic material in various media.

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Friend or Foe - The Effects of Company Part 2

Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

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